The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is an extremely important piece for the nursery of your baby. It isn't easy to select the right crib sets, with so many designs and safety concerns.

Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a crib with a wide selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that complements your style.

Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. It is crucial to not place any items in your baby's crib which could cause harm or injury including blankets, pillows and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches are not allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items could easily fall into or become caught between your baby and the crib bars or they could be engulfed by the mattress.

The best crib cribs for babies are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). And they are designed to be sustainable and adaptable, so they can grow with your child.

It's crucial to choose a crib which meets the current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs may lose their structural integrity due to age, humidity and frequent use, posing grave dangers to your child.

The slats of your crib should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims, and hardware for any broken or loose components.

It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets, since their safety might have been compromised. Don't buy or accept a crib with drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.

Style

While all cribs must meet strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some differences are purely cosmetic, such as the slats have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others can make it difficult to clean and use the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should be avoided and others, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are popular with parents.

A crib isn't intended to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib on your registry to get help from family and friends in the event that you require one.

Cribs come in many different styles However, we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD gold certified and we believe that is a must for any product that is non-toxic. It can be converted into a daybed and toddler by converting it with a separate kit.

Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stately choice that fits well into large nursery spaces, however it takes up more floor space than the smaller and minimalist models, and also has exposed hardware that some find distracting. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half of the other options and it's not as sturdy as our other choices.

Another option that has contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher level to alleviate reflux and colic which makes it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top options and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

When your cheap baby cots is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is the correct level. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which can be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher can safeguard your child from suffocation or overheating.

A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is included with most good cribs so that you can convert it into a daybed or toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. Finally, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party organization to ensure safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that your baby's crib is not contaminated of any chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features a simple design and no complicated parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than other cribs however, one user stated that her baby did well sleeping in it and was still in good condition when she passed it on to a friend following the birth of her second child.

Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern style. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs but its durability and features are worth it. It can easily be converted into a toddler bed or bassinet and comes with wheels that make it easy to move around. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a like a womb for your baby. It also adds an elegant look to any nursery.

The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from a newborn to a toddler.

No Chewable or Dangling Parts

The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are extremely grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should make sure the items are secured tightly and not in reach of Baby.

In addition to the security features of our best infant cribs, we also look at how easy it is to put together. The crib should be easy enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a long amount of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to assemble an modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.

It is crucial to choose a crib that will last many years. Choose a crib that can be transformed from a crib into an infant's bed, and then a full-size mattress.

Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace the bassinet in the early months, and then be converted to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it with your nursery's theme.

Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic alternative. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that allows parents who are small to touch their child and comfort them. It is renowned for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also surpasses all safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail which you can purchase separately. This is an excellent option for those seeking a top-quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.